Avoid Parquet & Laminate Damage: Tenant Tips Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you are often responsible for the condition of parquet or laminate when moving out. Small scratches, wear or larger damages can lead to landlord claims if they are not properly documented and assessed. This article explains clearly which damages are common, when cosmetic repairs are expected, how to record damage with photos and writing, which deadlines apply and which forms or templates you can use. You will also see when repairs fall under the landlord's duty and how a court judgment or the local court may decide in disputes. At the end you will find practical checklists, cost-limiting tips and links to official German legal sources.

Typical damages and who is liable

When assessing parquet and laminate damage, distinguish normal wear from damage that exceeds normal use. Deep scratches, burn marks or moisture-affected boards are usually considered damage, while surface wear is often acceptable.

• Deep scratches and dents (repair required)
• Burn or water damage (repair or replacement)
• Minor wear from furniture or daily use (document evidence)
• Uneven discoloration over large areas (photo evidence)

Documentation at move-out

Good documentation reduces disputes. Create a handover record, photograph damage in daylight from several angles and note measurements and dates. Send a copy to the landlord by registered mail or by email with read receipt if that is customary in the tenancy.

• Fill out and sign a handover protocol
• Save photos with timestamps and short descriptions
• Send written defect notice to the landlord (notice)
• Observe deadlines: document and report promptly (within days)

Rights, deadlines and formal steps

German tenancy law regulates tenant and landlord duties in the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch. For landlord claims, the legal basis in §§ 535–580a BGB is relevant^[1]. Minor wear is often considered normal use; claims may lead to proceedings at the local court^[2]. Civil procedure and filing a lawsuit are governed by the Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)^[3].

FAQ

Who pays for normal wear on parquet?

Normal wear from contractual use is generally not the tenant's responsibility; extraordinary damage may be charged by the landlord.

How do I document damage correctly?

Use a handover protocol, take clear daylight photos and record the date and circumstances in writing.

Can the landlord demand new boards instead of repair?

If the damage is so extensive that repair is insufficient, replacement may be required; proportionality and actual costs must be examined.

How-To

1. Step 1: Create a complete handover protocol at the apartment handover.
2. Step 2: Photograph each significant damage from multiple angles.
3. Step 3: Send written documentation to the landlord and request confirmation.
4. Step 4: Keep all receipts and deadlines, prepare a costed counterposition if necessary.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) on gesetze-im-internet.de
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) decisions
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection

1. [1] BGB §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Competent local courts and jurisdiction — justiz.de
3. [3] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de